The small arrow next to the fuel pump icon on your dashboard indicates which side of your vehicle the fuel filler door is located.
This is a common feature on most modern vehicles designed to help drivers quickly identify the location of their gas tank. When you are at a gas station, especially in an unfamiliar car like a rental or a newly purchased model, simply look for the fuel pump symbol. A small triangle or arrow pointing left or right will be positioned next to it, directly showing you which side of the car to pull up to the pump on. This saves you from guessing or having to circle the pump unnecessarily.
The presence and exact appearance of this indicator can vary slightly between different car manufacturers and models.
Is the gas tank side consistent across different car models?
No, the side your gas tank is on is not consistent across all car models. While many cars have the fuel filler door on the driver's side, others place it on the passenger's side. The specific location is determined by the vehicle's design and manufacturer. The dashboard arrow indicator, when present, is the most reliable way to know for any given vehicle. Always refer to your owner's manual for definitive information about your specific car.